Time for discipline as XtremeSTORM approaches

THERE is no longer months to go until XtremeSTORM – it is now just weeks.

Looking back on a vigorous training regime that started last year, I am delighted with how far I have come.

But I’m in danger of throwing it all away.

OK, that’s a bit dramatic, but going to the gym four, five, six times a week and scrutinising what I eat is now taking its toll.

On top of work, family and social commitments, it has been hard.

Yet just as I need to hold firm and stay on track with my training, I am starting to lose discipline.

I’m still training. I’m eating well. I’m still feeling good.

But the last week or two has seen me press snooze on my alarm once or twice, instead of going for a pre-work run.

It has also seen me go for that chocolate bar on offer at the till as I pay for my chicken, wholegrain rice and porridge.

My diet requires strict adherence in the week, allowing me to eat what I want at the weekend. When you are home from the shops on a Friday night though, and have a bounty of weekend treats before you, it can be hard to ignore them for that 10th portion of grilled chicken and wholegrain rice.

These slips are not through complacency.

At no point have I felt confident I can take on XtremeSTORM and win. Instead, my confidence in myself has grown rapidly, and thanks to my personal trainer Mike Tobin, I am undoubtedly in a far better place than when I first met him at Victoria Leisure last year.

If I abide by his law, I may just get through it. I just need to make it through to April 20.

I am determined to do so. But if you see me eyeing up a Snickers in a supermarket queue on a Friday night, make sure you tell me to behave!